Are you planning to form a limited liability company (LLC) in Virginia?
Then you should keep in mind that every LLC needs a registered agent (also known as a statutory agent in some states).
Not sure whom you should appoint as a registered agent?
Who can be a registered agent for an LLC in Virginia?
According to the Code of Virginia, a member or a manager of an LLC can be a registered agent of that LLC provided that they:
- Are a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Have a physical street address in the state (a P.O. box won’t do).
- Can be available at their registered office during the regular business hours year-round in case a Service of Process notice arrives.
Alternatively, you can appoint a member of the Virginia State Bar or a commercial registered agent service provider allowed to do business in this state.
Note that an LLC can’t be its own registered agent in the state of Virginia.
6 Best Registered Agent Services in Virginia
As mentioned earlier, another legal entity can serve as a registered agent for your LLC. This includes business services providers, accountants, and legal professionals.
Often, you get more than just registered agent services from your provider, but some extra add-ons like compliance services, accounting, or legal advice.
Below is a list of Virginia-based commercial registered agent service providers with stellar reviews.
1. Northwest Registered Agent (Our Partner)
Northwest Registered Agent is our top recommendation for anyone looking for a registered agent service in Virginia.
They offer a complete, well-rounded registered agent service with excellent customer support, favorable conditions, good privacy, and an easy, straightforward sign-up process.
Northwest Registered Agent also distinguish themselves with a customer-friendly 90-day return policy. Should you decide to cancel your service, Northwest will offer you a prorated refund of the fees and costs you paid.
- Costs: $125/year
- Visit Website
- Address: 4445 Corporation Lane Ste 264, Virginia Beach, VA, 23462
2. Smith Strong PLC
Smith Strong PLC provides legal services in various practice areas, including divorce and custody, estate planning, elder law, business interpretation, and more.
The firm also offers LLC formation, incorporation, and registered agent services.
It’s a good option for anyone looking to get comprehensive legal coverage from a single provider.
- Cost: $295/year
- Visit Website
- Address: 5803 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA 23228
3. General Counsel, P.C
General Counsel, PC is a law firm that provides legal services in several areas, including business law, employment law, family law, and more.
The firm also offers incorporation and registered agent services for new business entities.
It was founded in 2004 and has been in business for nearly two decades.
- Cost: Request a quote
- Visit Website
- Address: 6849 Old Dominion Dr #220 McLean, VA 22101
4. LingleLaw
LingleLaw is a law firm that provides legal services in several practice areas, including business law, real estate law, and wills.
The firm also offers incorporation and registered agent services. It currently serves as a registered agent for over 400 entities, registered in the state.
5. Simms Showers
Simms Showers is a law firm that provides legal services in several practice areas including criminal defense, business law, and litigation.
Over the last 15 years, the firm has served as a registered agent for hundreds of clients. The team is highly responsive, professional, and boasts great reviews from the community.
- Cost: Request a quote
- Visit Website
- Address: Leesburg Office, 305 Harrison Street SE, Third Floor, Leesburg, Virginia 20175
6. Montgomery, Kelley & Dennett, PLC
Montgomery, Kelly & Dennet is a law firm that provides legal services, incorporation services, and registered agent services.
The three attorneys behind this firm have 76 years of combined legal service experience. So if you want to work with top legal guns, this is the service provider to consider!
- Cost: Request a quote
- Visit Website
- Address: 5520 Foundation St., Williamsburg, VA
How do I appoint a registered agent in Virginia?
You need to name your registered agent in the Articles of Organization when you file the formation documents with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).
The process is simple. Just add the appointee's name and address on the state form. Then tick the box to signify whether they are an LLC member, manager, or third party — and you’re done.
How do I change my registered agent in Virginia?
Changing your registered agent details is easy too.
- Request a Statement of Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form.
- Name your new registered agent when filling out the form.
- File the form with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).
There’s no state fee for changing your registered agent in Virginia.
FAQs about Virginia registered agents
Here are the frequently asked questions about registered agent services in Virginia.
